2 Women Missing After Rafting Group Goes Over Virginia Dam

RICHMOND, VA — Authorities are searching for two missing women after a group of people on inflatable rafts and paddleboards went over the Bosher Dam on the James River on Monday, according to reports.

Twelve people were involved in the accident, authorities told NBC 12 in Richmond. The two missing women have been identified as Lauren Winstead, 23, of Henrico, and Sarah Erway, 28, of Chesterfield.

According to Richmond CBS affiliate WTVR, river levels are high due to recent rains. As a result, people were not supposed to be on the river without a permit, according to officials.

The group reportedly launched from Watkins Landing in Powhatan, according to WTVR. They tried to get off the river at Robious Landing in Chesterfield but the currents were too strong.

Bosher Dam has a drop of about 12 feet.

At a news conference Monday night, Richmond Fire Department officials said nine people were rescued from the water, WAVY reported. One person was able to get to shore and go for help.

Emergency crews searched for the missing women until nightfall Monday and resumed their search early Tuesday morning, according to WAVY.